Independence of the Seas overview
Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas is all about high-energy thrills. Over the years, Royal Caribbean has redefined cruising and revolutionized the onboard experience. Like many of the fleet’s ships, Independence of the Seas caters to active travelers and families on the go with activities like dual-racing waterslides, surf simulators, laser tag, and rock climbing. Still, this Freedom-class vessel is more than just a thrill-seekers’ domain. With restaurants featuring bold, global flavors and a number of daily entertainment options including Broadway at Sea and ice-skating shows, there’s something to satisfy all kinds of travelers.
In 2018, Independence of the Seas received enhancements through Royal Caribbean’s multimillion-dollar Royal Amplified program and now boasts some of the most innovative activities at sea. Updates included several waterslides, a Puzzle Break escape room, and SkyPad: a virtual reality experience that is also the first-ever trampoline park at sea. Independence also added new cabins including panoramic-view staterooms with floor-to-ceiling glass walls and a kids-only waterpark. The modernization also added several restaurants, including Izumi and Fish & Ships, plus a fully stocked candy shop.
Depending on the season, Independence of the Seas’ cruises sail from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, or Southampton, England to destinations in the western Caribbean and Europe. From Florida, the ship travels to several western Caribbean destinations including Cozumel, Puerto Costa Maya, Jamaica, and Labadee, Haiti, Royal Caribbean’s top-rated private destination. From England, Independence starts the summer cruise season with voyages to the Mediterranean. Itineraries there vary, but ports of call may include Italy, Spain, Portugal, France, and the United Kingdom. The ship also offers several transatlantic cruises as it moves between continents.
Independence of the Seas ship highlights
- Adults-only Solarium
- Broadway at Sea productions, including Grease
- Surf simulators and dual-racing waterslides
- Full-service Vitality at Sea spa
- Specialty dining including the Fish & Ships poolside restaurant
- SkyPad virtual reality bungee/trampoline experience
- Puzzle Break escape room
- Kid-friendly Splashaway Bay
- Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade
- Sugar Beach candy shop
- Johnny Rockets and Ben & Jerry’s
- Royal Caribbean's award-winning Adventure Ocean childcare program
Before you book
Why sail on Independence of the Seas: This ship was designed for adventurous travelers. Its onboard amenities have multigenerational appeal, making this the ideal cruise ship for families and travelers who want to stay active on sea days.
You should know: Independence of the Seas is known for keeping cruisers busy. Because it can accommodate over 3,500 passengers, the ship’s hot spots, including its main swimming pool and adults-only Solarium, are often crowded during peak times, and noise from its pulse-pounding amenities may disturb those trying to relax. This ship likely won't appeal to travelers seeking a tranquil, traditional at-sea experience.
